Kathmandu, Nepal - Kathmandu witnessed a groundbreaking collaboration today as media professionals from Nepal and India gathered for the inaugural session of a four-day regional workshop titled "Strengthening Transboundary Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Reporting in the Nepal–India Context." Organized by Youth Innovation Lab in partnership with UNESCO Nepal, the event aims to enhance cross-border journalism in tackling shared climate and disaster challenges in the Hindu Kush Himalaya region.
Keynote Highlights: Collaboration in Action
The workshop commenced with opening remarks by Santosh Chhetri, Board Member of Youth Innovation Lab, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of innovation in climate reporting. Mr. Jaco Du Toit, UNESCO Representative to Nepal, delivered an inspiring keynote address, advocating for fact-based journalism as a critical tool in combating misinformation and fostering climate resilience. He highlighted the urgency of collaboration across borders to address environmental degradation and climate-induced disasters.
Exploring Shared Climate Challenges
The workshop's agenda featured diverse sessions designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to address regional climate issues effectively. Highlights from Day 1 included:
Baseline Knowledge Alignment: A pre-survey session assessed participants’ understanding of climate and disaster frameworks, setting the stage for tailored learning.
Panel Discussion - “Stories Sans Borders”: Experts from Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), UNESCO Nepal, and prominent media leaders deliberated on the media's role in bridging science, policy, and public awareness. Topics such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and environmental degradation were addressed with a focus on fostering collaborative reporting.
Crisis and Risk Communication Training: Rajan Pokharel of The Himalayan Times led an interactive session on the media's responsibility during emergencies, underscoring the need for accurate and timely communication.
A Foundation for Future Collaboration
The workshop concluded Day 1 with vibrant discussions and reflections among participants, laying the groundwork for deeper learning in the coming days. Participants expressed optimism about the potential of cross-border journalism to drive impactful narratives on climate action and disaster resilience.
This initiative represents a significant step toward building a network of informed and collaborative journalists dedicated to addressing the complex challenges of the Himalayan region.
Stay tuned for more updates as this workshop continues to shape the future of transboundary climate reporting.
